Young Lakes via Dog Lake Trail

Immerse yourself in a quintessential Yosemite hike along the Young Lakes via Dog Lake Trail. This epic excursion guides intrepid adventurers through forests lined with granite outcrops up to three shimmering lakes above Tuolumne Meadows. This expedition is long, so make sure you wear layers, pack plenty of water and snacks as well! Note: Tioga Pass Road is subject to seasonal closure, meaning the trail is only accessible when the road is open. Yosemite National Park also charges an entrance fee, check out the
NPS website for more information.

Embark on your adventure along the Young Lakes via Dog Lake Trail from the Dog Lake Trailhead in Tuolumne Meadows. From here, begin trekking north along the Dog Lake Trail, hiking through the meadowlands and mixed pine forests. Soon you will reach Dog Lake, a quaint body of water that reveals an impressive scene of the picture-perfect landscape. Continue hiking, now heading northwestwardly, and enjoy the scenery of the forests and impressive granite outcrops that decorate the terrain.

At the next junction, veer right and you will be diverted onto the Young Lakes Trail, tracking northeast. Wander this path around the base of Ragged Peak, before the trail opens to Young Lakes. Revel in the beauty of the crystalline lakes hemmed by craggy cliffs, and take in the sights of the neighboring Sierra Nevada peaks before retracing your footing all the way back to the trailhead to mark the end of your adventure.